Physics, B.S.

Physics Program

This program leads to a B.S. degree in physics. There are four different curricula: the physics major, the physics education concentration of the physics major, the earth and space science concentration of the physics major, and the bio-physics concentration of the physics major. The physics major is the appropriate curriculum for a student contemplating a career in physics or engineering. The physics education concentration of the physics major is a more general program, suitable for a student planning a career or as a high school teacher. The earth and space science concentration is a flexible program intended for students interested in more applied areas such as astronomy or geophysics. All four programs develop analytic and problem-solving skills which will be valuable in any future occupation.

Physics Major

This is the curriculum recommended for students interested in careers as physicists and for students contemplating graduate school in physics.

B.S. Degree

There are 46 semester hours required for students in this curriculum (exclusive of the B.A./B.S. requirements). These include 12 semester hours of Math Requirements, 28 semester hours of Required Courses, and at least 6 hours of Other Courses.

B.A./B.S. Degree Requirements (6-12 credits)

Electives

Students should consult with their academic advisors in selecting elective courses to complete the 120 semester hours required for graduation.

Total Credits Needed For Graduation (120)

Physics Education Concentration

B.A. or B.S. Degree

There are 40 semester hours required for students in this concentration (exclusive of the B.A./B.S. requirements). These include 9 semester hours of MATH requirements, 22 semester hours of Required Courses, and at least nine hours of Other Courses.

B.A./B.S. Degree Requirements (6-12 credits)

Electives

Students should consult with their academic advisors in selecting elective courses to complete the 120 semester hours required for graduation.

Total Credits Needed For Graduation (120)

Earth and Space Science Concentration

This concentration will allow a broad physics-based degree with more flexibility in the elective courses for students to choose their career path. For example those wishing to go to graduate school in astronomy may choose more astronomy classes. Those in our existing Cooperative Engineering Agreement with Virginia Tech may choose more applied electives such as Geophysics and Engineering Geology.

B.A. or B.S. Degree

There are 41 semester hours required for students in this concentration (exclusive of the B.A./B.S. requirements). These include 6 semester hours of math requirements, 19 hours of required courses, and at least 16 hours of other courses.

Total Credits Needed For Graduation (120)

B.S. Requirements (All Physics Majors)

B.S. Requirement (8 credits)

Electives

Students should consult with their academic advisors in selecting elective courses to complete the 120 semester hours required for graduation.

Total Credits Needed For Graduation (120)

Graduation Requirements

To graduate with a major in Physics, a student must attain an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher in all courses attempted in the major including Calculus and Analytic Geometry.

Teaching Licensure

Students seeking endorsements to teach physics must take appropriate courses in education. (Contact the College of Education and Human Development for information concerning these courses.)

Biophysics Concentration

B.A. or B.S. Degree

There are 77 semester hours required for students in this concentration (exclusive of the B.A./B.S. requirements). These include 12 semester hours of math requirements, and 65 hours of other required courses.